From its modest start with just seven graduates to today's grand celebration of nearly 900, Commencement is the University's most anticipated event of the year. As we mark the 175th edition of this tradition, we look back at the milestones that shaped this event — each a testament to Bucknell’s growth and enduring legacy.
 

Origin Story

Bucknell, initially known as the University at Lewisburg, held its first Commencement August 20, 1851. Seven men earned degrees before an audience that included future U.S. President James Buchanan. The University was described as "carved out of the wilds of Pennsylvania," which wasn't just poetic. The trek from Philadelphia involved a 25-hour journey by stagecoach, canal boat and train.

Unidentified student from the 1890s. Photo courtesy of University Archives/Special Collections

Dressing the Part

Bucknell's first seven graduates shared a single academic gown, exchanging it behind the platform before stepping up to deliver their speeches. Caps and gowns became the standard in 1891; their use before then was debated. By the 1890-91 academic year, students had embraced the tradition, seeing it as a symbol of academic success. A look through our archives reveals the timelessness of this custom. Grads from each decade share the same look. Only their hairstyles and shoes — and the attire of family members — hint at the changing eras.

Changing Venues

Bucknell's first ceremony was held in the Academy Building (now Taylor Hall), following a procession that began at old Lewisburg Baptist Church, where classes were first held. From 1855 to 1857, the festivities were held in the Grove. By 1858, the event had shifted indoors to Old Main (now Roberts Hall). When Bucknell Hall opened in 1886 with funding from William Bucknell, the Commencement procession began there before ascending to Old Main. In 1926, the ceremony moved to the College Quadrangle, with the porch of the Carnegie Building serving as the platform. Starting in 1933, Hunt Hall became the backdrop. By 1938, Commencement moved indoors to the newly constructed Davis Gymnasium. It remained there until 1970, when the ceremony moved to the Academic Quadrangle, now known as Malesardi Quadrangle. Today, seniors participate in a Commencement Eve candlelighting ceremony. On Commencement Day, they process through the Christy Mathewson Gates.

Honoring Luminaries

In 1851, Bucknell became the first U.S. institution to award an honorary doctorate. Since then, Bucknell has honored a variety of achievers, including composer and songwriter Irving Berlin H’40 (above, left) and 38th Vice President of the United States Hubert Humphrey H'68 (above, right).

When Duty Called

Bucknell's history includes wartime disruptions. In 1863, students formed the University Guards to defend Harrisburg from Confederate soldiers. Commencement was almost canceled, but the seniors returned just in time for the ceremony. During World War II, Bucknellians again answered the call to serve. From 1943 to 1946, the University hosted a Navy V-12 training unit, where aspiring officers trained while fast-tracking their bachelor's degrees.

Steps Toward Equality

Women had studied at the University since its founding, but primarily in secondary education programs in the Female Institute, a seminary affiliated with the University. In 1885, Chella Scott became Bucknell's first female graduate. Scott’s achievement occurred when higher education for women was still a relatively new concept.

In 1875, Edward McKnight Brawley became the first Black student to earn a bachelor's degree from Bucknell. Brawley went on to become a minister, religious scholar and journalist who served as the president of Selma University and Morris College.

Jessica Livingston '93 to Address 2025 Graduates

Jessica Livingston '93, co-founder of Silicon Valley's renowned startup incubator Y Combinator, will deliver the 175th Commencement address May 18. A leader in entrepreneurship and innovation, Livingston has helped launch over 5,500 startups, including Airbnb, Reddit and Stripe. Livingston, who majored in English, exemplifies how a Bucknell education can lay the foundation for a transformative, world-changing career.

Bucknell's colors, orange and blue, made their first appearance on the Commencement platform in 1887.

Editor's note: This feature benefited greatly from the expertise of Susan Falciani Maldonado, Bucknell's university archivist and director of special collections, and Eir Danielson, assistant university archivist and records management coordinator.

Learn more about their work at researchbysubject.bucknell.edu/scua and by following bucknell.scua on Instagram.